Chhattisgarh Government Launches Campaign Against Obesity

Raipur – In alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to combat obesity through the Fit India Movement and promotion of a healthy lifestyle, the Chhattisgarh government has launched a dedicated campaign to tackle rising obesity rates in the state, especially among children.

As part of this effort, schoolgirls will be made aware of the dangers of obesity through educational posters highlighting the ill effects of fast food and sugary drinks. Under the guidance of Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai, the campaign aims to foster healthier living habits across the state.

Assistant Public Relations Officer Dr. Om Dhariya stated that with the increasing prevalence of obesity due to poor eating habits and sedentary lifestyles, especially among schoolchildren, immediate awareness and preventive action are critical.

Obesity – A Growing Public Health Concern

Obesity has become a serious public health challenge in India, affecting both adults and children. According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS), one in five adults in urban areas is overweight or obese. The Lancet GBD 2021 Obesity Forecast Study predicts that by 2050, India could be the second most affected country in the world in terms of obesity burden, with the number of obese adults expected to rise from 180 million in 2021 to 449 million.

Obesity significantly increases the risk of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and certain cancers. It also affects mental health, mobility, and overall quality of life, while contributing to higher healthcare costs and economic losses due to reduced productivity.

Causes of Obesity in Children

Experts point out that childhood obesity is largely driven by unhealthy diets and lack of physical activity. Globalized food markets have made processed foods rich in fat, salt, and sugar more accessible, leading to increased per capita calorie consumption. This not only affects children’s physical health but also impacts their self-esteem, mental well-being, and academic performance.

Health Ministry Initiatives

To tackle obesity and lifestyle-related diseases, the Ministry of Health has issued guidelines on May 10, 2025, mandating the display of Oil and Sugar Boards in schools, workplaces, and public institutions. These boards inform people about hidden fats and sugars in commonly consumed foods, enabling them to make healthier dietary choices.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has directed schools to install these boards to educate students about the risks of consuming excessive oil and sugar. Schools have also been encouraged to promote healthy meals and physical activities such as stair climbing, short exercises, and walking.

Promoting Nutritious Diets

Through programs like Poshan Abhiyan and Eat Right India, the government is promoting the consumption of millets like jowar and bajra. These traditional grains are rich in nutrients, gluten-free, and beneficial in preventing obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.

Under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, health and nutrition education has been integrated into school curriculums. Additionally, under the Ayushman Bharat School Health and Wellness Programme, teachers are being trained as Health and Wellness Ambassadors to guide students toward healthy habits.

Awareness Campaigns and Community Engagement

CBSE and the Health Ministry are emphasizing the importance of seminars and workshops in schools and workplaces to spread awareness about balanced diets and regular exercise. These events aim to educate participants on the dangers of high-fat, sugary, and ultra-processed foods. Schools are also being encouraged to involve students in experiential learning activities like designing their own Oil and Sugar Boards.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has made educational posters and awareness videos available on its YouTube channel for use in schools and workplaces.

Collective Action for a Healthier India

Effectively addressing the obesity crisis in India will require a coordinated effort involving the government, schools, communities, and individuals. Campaigns like Fit India, Poshan Abhiyan, and Eat Right India play a key role in encouraging healthier lifestyles. Initiatives such as awareness seminars, poster campaigns, and the installation of Oil and Sugar Boards in schools are motivating children to adopt good habits from a young age.

By promoting behavior change in public spaces and workplaces, India is steadily progressing toward the vision of a healthier and stronger nation. Citizens are encouraged to actively participate in these campaigns and help realize the dream of a Healthy India.